Bristol Bears must make sure Ilona Maher is ready says Dave Ward
Maher’s arrival was seen as a major win for the Bears.
The 28-year-old is the most watched rugby player in the world after winning a bronze medal with Team USA at this summer’s Paris Olympics.
The Vermont native has 4.5 million followers on Instagram and 3.2 million followers on TikTok, which Ward believes will help showcase his team and the rest of the league to a wider audience.
“I think everyone agrees that the RFU, PWR are right to support her visa application and it’s in the interests of the game,” Ward added.
“You walk into the building and it inspires the community to strive for success in rugby. If it allows the girls to see what they do, and I see it day in and day out, I hope more people see it It, I hope more people in Bristol see it, I hope more people around the world see it.
“If it does attract more eyeballs, then that’s better for me.”
If she is not ready for Gloucester’s game against Hartpury, Maher’s premiership debut could come on January 12 when the Bears visit Exeter.
Bristol are fourth in the PWR with 25 points and will face league leaders Exeter Chiefs on Saturday.
